Report of the NEC: Maurice Can Switch From Coal

The National Energy Commission (NEC) shows that Mauritius can switch from coal while avoiding any risk of blackout. In his confidential report to the Cabinet of Ministers in October, it highlights two scenarios. The first, where Maurice mainly dependent on coal for electricity. The second one where the country promotes more green energy while reducing its dependence on coal.

The report stresses that the first scheme, which relies mainly Maurice coal will not allow the country to achieve the objectives set by the government through Maurice Ile Durable (MID). Indeed, one of the objectives of the MID is to make sure that the country produces 35% of its electricity from renewables by 2025. However, with the current policy advocated by the Central Electricity Board (CEB), which is based on the proposed coal-fired 100 MW CT Power , inter alia, the NEC provides the share of green energy that would 12.5%.

" As against the objectives of the MID are better achieved in the second scenario. With the first scenario, coal consumption is six times the CO2 emission is four times higher and that of sulfur dioxide is eight times more consistent than in the second case , "said the report page 61. From an economic point of view also, the first scenario is less advantageous. " Taking into account the lifetime of the projects based on coal, a policy focusing on renewable energy cost 40% cheaper in the country. "

In total, 21 recommendations were made by the NEC. First, it is to prevent any risk of blackouts and 2016. To do this, the NEC suggests that the CEB is equipped with an engine operating at 60 MW heavy oil, which will switch to natural gas. It also intends to include small farmers and other citizens in the production of green energy that could then be sold to the CEB.

In another aspect, the NEC offers steps towards a green economy in the long term. One holds the introduction of a carbon tax, a restructuring of the MID Fund , developing an action plan on renewable energy, among others. Finally, the report says that " persist in an energy policy based on coal would force Maurice to this option for many long years . "